Ghana's parliament passes anti-LGBTQ+ bill
BBC Africa reports that Ghana's parliament has passed a bill criminalising same-sex acts and advocacy for LGBTQ+ identity. Human rights organisations have announced plans for a constitutional court challenge, while government representatives described the measure as the democratic will of parliament.
BBC AfricaBBC Africa reports that Ghana's parliament has passed legislation that brings sexual acts between same-sex partners and advocacy for LGBTQ+ identity into the scope of criminal law. The bill took roughly two years to pass through committee; the Judicial Committee said the text was drafted to protect what it described as the country's traditional and religious values.
Human rights organisations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch criticised the legislation and announced plans for a Constitutional Court challenge based on constitutional equality and privacy principles. Some representatives of churches and inter-faith dialogue committees said the bill reflects the will of the parliamentary majority. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce and the EU delegation drew attention to freedom of expression and minority-rights dimensions.
The president has 30 days to sign the bill or return it for reconsideration. If enacted, Ghana would follow Uganda and Nigeria in adopting similar legislation. This article is reporting that gives different parties equal weight and does not constitute legal, political or personal advice.
More from Africa
Four sentenced to death in Nigeria over Catholic church attack
Four people convicted of killing worshippers at a Catholic church in Nigeria were sentenced to death, BBC reported. The court announced its verdict and said the defendants retain the right to appeal. The case has reopened debate over security challenges in the country.
DR Congo health workers describe how they are treating Ebola and staying safe
As an Ebola outbreak continues in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, health workers described the protective protocols they follow while treating patients. Medical equipment and vaccine deliveries to the affected region are ongoing. Regional health authorities said they are conducting continuous monitoring.
Egyptian court sentences activist Ahmed Douma to prison again
Egyptian activist Ahmed Douma has been sentenced to prison again after writing an article critical of the country's prison system. Al Jazeera reported that the ruling, coming after his 2022 pardon, has been criticised by human-rights organisations.